National Museum of San Matteo, Pisa

Housed in a former Benedictine monastery, the National Museum of San Matteo offers a deep dive into Pisa's artistic heritage from the Middle Ages and Renaissance. The collection spans from the 12th to the 17th centuries, with a strong emphasis on Tuscan sculpture and painting. Visitors can admire masterpieces by Giovanni Pisano, including delicate ivory carvings, and Donatello's bronze 'Beato' relief. The museum's serene cloisters and well-lit galleries create an intimate setting for exploring religious art, illuminated manuscripts, and polychrome wooden statues. It's a quieter alternative to Pisa's more crowded attractions, allowing for unhurried contemplation of works that once adorned the city's churches.

Don't miss

• Giovanni Pisano's ivory Madonna and Child
• Donatello's bronze relief 'Beato'
• Simone Martini's polyptych from the Church of Santa Caterina
• Illuminated choir books from Pisan monasteries
• The cloister with Romanesque capitals and fresco fragments

Tickets & tours

Ways to visit National Museum of San Matteo, Pisa

Cheapest way inLeonardo da Vinci Museum: the Universal Genius and His Works4.3★ · 72 travelers~1 hoursFree cancellationFrom$10 per personSee dates →Most bookedBest of Pisa: Small Group Tour with Admission Tickets4.7★ · 289 travelers2–3 hoursFree cancellationFrom$85 per personSee dates →Private & flexiblePrivate Tour from Rome to Pisa and Florence with Tower of Pisa5★ · 42 travelers~14 hoursFree cancellationFrom$300 per personSee dates →